In a notable shift in policy under the current administration, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly referred to U.S. military bases by their previous names—Fort Bragg and Fort Benning—during a press briefing on Monday. This action aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to roll back what he views as “woke” policies and place greater emphasis on traditional military readiness rather than diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the Department of Defense.
Hegseth’s remarks were made as part of the announcement of the implementation of Trump’s executive orders. Speaking from the Pentagon, Hegseth emphasized the administration’s focus on combat preparedness, stating, “Every moment that I’m here, I’m thinking about the guys and gals in Guam, in Germany, in Fort Benning, in Fort Bragg.” The statement was followed by a pledge to eliminate DEI programs at the Pentagon and redirect those resources towards improving operational capabilities.
